Plastic surgery can be a demanding career requiring extensive education and training get the facts. This medical specialty involves restoring, reconstructing or altering the body. It requires a great deal of precision. We will outline the educational requirements for a future in plastic surgery.
1. Undergraduate Studies
This is the first stage of the journey. You can choose from any science-related subject, such as pre-medical, biology or chemistry. The undergraduate degree program of four years is the foundation for medical school. In order to qualify for medical school requirements, plastic surgeons must excel, especially in science-related courses. Students are also encouraged by their teachers to engage in extracurricular work such as volunteering and research.
2. Medical School
The next step, after earning your bachelor degree, is to enter medical school. This takes about four years. Admission to medical colleges is extremely competitive. Admission requires high academic scores, excellent scores on the Medical College Admission Test as well as strong letters of recommendations. In the first 2 years, classrooms are used to teach students anatomy, physiology, pharmacology. Students are given rotations in their last two medical school years to allow them to gain clinical experience.
3. Residency:
The next step after obtaining a Doctor of Medicine Degree (MD) (or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Degree (DO) is residency training. Plastic surgeons that wish to become surgeons in the field of plastic surgery must complete an intensive general surgery residency, lasting between five to six years. During this period, residents acquire valuable experience in emergency situations, surgical procedures, patient management and more. After completing their general surgery program, residents will be required to complete the plastic surgery residency. This residency normally lasts another three years. This training is in plastic and reconstruction surgeries such as cosmetic procedures and microsurgery.
4. Board Certification
Plastic surgeons with residency training who want to provide the best care to their patients must be board certified. The American Board of Plastic Surgery requires that you pass the American Board of Plastic Surgery examinations. Board certification is an indicator of excellence. It’s often required by insurance companies and hospitals for privileges.
5. Continued Education:
Plastic surgery, like all fields of medicine, is constantly evolving. New technologies and techniques are being developed. Plastic surgeons have to be educated continuously throughout their careers to keep up with new advancements. You may need to attend conferences or workshops as well as obtain additional certifications.
The path to becoming a cosmetic surgeon is a difficult and lengthy one. It takes at least 13-15 years of education and training after high-school. If you are committed to this career and have passion for it, the rewards will be worth your effort.